GERIA 2

Aging

normal, gradual, and lifelong process characterized by changes in the structure and function of body systems

Normal aging

causes predictable physiologic changes

pathological aging

involves disease or abnormalities that go beyond expected age-related changes.

skin

becomes thinner, drier, less elastic, and more fragile

sarcopenia

↓ Muscle mass and strength

orthostatic hypotension

decreased baroreceptor sensitivity can contribute to ________, causing dizziness when standing.

Urinary incontinence

is common but is NOT an inevitable or normal consequence of aging.

It should be assessed for reversible causes and underlying disease.

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Important: Mild weakness and decreased flexibility can be normal; severe weakness, sudden inability to walk, or significant functional decline requires assessment.

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Normal aging does NOT cause severe confusion or major memory loss.

Sudden confusion should be treated as a possible sign of delirium or another medical problem, not simply "old age."

Presbyopia

difficulty seeing near objects

Presbycusis

age-related hearing loss.

Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment

used to identify an older adult's physical, functional, psychological, cognitive, social, nutritional, environmental, and medication-related needs.

Physical assessment

determines the older adult's current health status and identifies acute and chronic conditions

functional status

refers to the person's ability to perform activities necessary for everyday living.

ADLs

are basic self-care activities necessary for independent living.

IADLs

are more complex activities needed for independent living in the community.

Cognitive assessment

evaluates the patient's ability to think and process information.

Delirium

usually sudden and fluctuating.

Dementia/major neurocognitive disorder

generally progressive and persistent cognitive decline.

Social assessment

determines whether the older adult has adequate assistance and meaningful relationships.

MINI-MENTAL STATE EXAMINATION

screening tool for cognitive impairment

useful for identifying possible cognitive impairment but does not independently establish a diagnosis of dementia

used for general cognitive screening

MONTREAL COGNITIVE ASSESSMENT

cognitive screening instrument designed to detect mild cognitive impairment

useful when subtle or mild cognitive impairment is suspected.

 

KATZ ADL INDEX

measures independence in basic activities of daily living

LAWTON IADL SCALE

measures the ability to perform more complex of daily living

MINI NUTRITIONAL ASSESSMENT

used to identify older adults who are:

•Well nourished

•At risk for malnutrition

•Potentially malnourished

•It considers factors such as:

•Food intake

•Weight loss

•Mobility

•Psychological stress

•Neuropsychological problems

•BMI or other nutritional indicators

BRADEN SCALE

evaluates the patient's risk for developing pressure..

MORSE FALL SCALE

used to identify patients at risk for falling.

GERIATRIC DEPRESSION SCALE (GDS)

designed to screen older adults for depressive symptoms

focuses on the patient's feelings, mood, satisfaction, hopelessness, and interest in activities

Stress

is the body's response to physical or

psychological demands.

Health promotion

refers to enabling individuals and communities to increase

control over and improve their health.

Primary prevention

prevents disease before it occurs

secondary prevention

detects diseases early

tertiary prevention

Reduces complications and disability

from established disease.

Vaccination

is a major component of

preventive geriatric nursing.

Herpes zoster (shingles)

results from reactivation of varicella-zoster virus.

Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)

This can cause persistent neuropathic pain

after the rash resolves.

recombinant zoster vaccine

is used for prevention of herpes zoster in recommended populations.

Health screening

involves identifying disease or risk factors before symptoms become apparent or complications develop.

Screening

Used in people without obvious symptoms to identify those who may need further evaluation.

Diagnostic testing

Used when disease is suspected because of symptoms, signs, or abnormal screening results.